How Snow Storms Affect Power Lines and What You Can Do

When a snow storm hits, the most immediate concerns are often travel safety, home heating, and staying warm. But one of the most disruptive consequences of a severe winter storm is the damage it can cause to power lines. From fallen trees to heavy ice accumulation, snow storms have the power to knock out electricity for hours—or even days—leaving homes and businesses in the cold and dark.

Understanding how snow storms affect power lines and what you can do to prepare can help you minimize disruptions and stay safe during winter’s worst.

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How Snow Storms Impact Power Lines

1. Ice Accumulation

The biggest threat during a snow storm is ice accumulation. When freezing rain or wet snow builds up on power lines, it adds significant weight. Just a half inch of ice can add hundreds of pounds to a span of wire. That stress can cause lines to sag, snap, or pull down utility poles entirely.

2. Tree Limbs Falling on Lines

Heavy snow can also weigh down tree branches, causing them to break and fall onto nearby power lines. This is especially common with older trees or those that haven’t been pruned properly. In many cases, the impact from a falling branch is enough to sever the line or damage critical infrastructure like transformers and insulators.

3. Wind Compounding the Damage

Strong winter winds, which often accompany snow storms, can exacerbate these issues by pushing snow-laden branches directly into power lines or causing poles and lines to sway violently—eventually leading to failure.

4. Ground Access and Delayed Repairs

Snow-covered and icy roads make it difficult for utility crews to reach damaged lines quickly. In rural or heavily impacted areas, repairs can be delayed due to limited access or safety concerns, prolonging outages and leaving homes without heat or electricity.

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What You Can Do Before and During a Snow Storm

1. Prepare an Emergency Kit

Always keep an emergency kit ready in your home that includes:

• Flashlights and batteries
• Portable phone chargers or power banks
• Bottled water and non-perishable food
• Blankets and warm clothing
• A battery-operated radio for weather updates

2. Install a Backup Heat Source

If possible, install a wood stove, fireplace, or portable generator. These can be lifesavers during extended outages. Make sure any backup systems are used safely and are properly ventilated to avoid carbon monoxide buildup.

3. Trim Nearby Trees

Proactively trimming tree limbs near power lines (done by a professional or with permission from the utility company) can prevent them from causing outages when snow and ice accumulate.

4. Use Ice Melting Salt Safely

Applying ice melting salt on sidewalks, driveways, and around your home can reduce the risk of slips and falls during icy conditions. It also helps create safe paths for emergency access and utility workers who may need to inspect or repair nearby lines.

5. Stay Informed

Sign up for alerts from your local utility provider and monitor weather services for storm warnings. Being aware of storm developments in real-time allows you to take proactive steps before the power goes out.

6. Avoid Downed Power Lines

After a storm, always treat downed power lines as live and extremely dangerous. Stay at least 30 feet away and report them immediately to your utility company or emergency services. Never attempt to remove debris or snow from power lines yourself.

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After the Storm

Once the storm has passed and power is restored, inspect your home for damage. Check for broken wires, scorched outlets, or flickering lights that might indicate lingering electrical issues. If you notice anything unusual, contact a licensed electrician before using the affected circuits.

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Snow storms are a fact of winter life in many regions, but power outages don’t have to be a crisis. By understanding how snow storms affect power lines and preparing your home accordingly, you can stay safe, warm, and informed—even when the lights go out.